Attractions along the Fukui Prefecture Line: Tsuruga Station, Kehi Shrine & Kanegasaki Shrine

Tsuruga Station will become the starting and terminal station for the Hokuriku Shinkansen. The design concept of the Shinkansen station, which appears to float in the air and is surrounded by nature, includes a view of the port. Standing at 37 meters, it is the tallest Shinkansen station in all of Japan. Attraction 1: Kehi Shrine Known as the Ichinomiya of Echizen and the chief guardian shrine of the Hokuriku Road, this ancient shrine has a large torii gate that stands approximately 11 meters tall and has been designated as a national important cultural property. Along with the torii gates of Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima and Kasuga Taisha in Nara, it is one of Japan's three great wooden torii gates. Additionally, Kehi Shrine is famous for its 'longevity water.' Legend has it that in 702, when the shrine was being constructed, divine water sprang forth from the ground. Since the deity enshrined here is associated with longevity, the water is recognized as 'longevity water.' Attraction 2: Kanegasaki Shrine Also known as the 'Shrine of Romance,' it is said that about 150 years ago, men and women who came to admire the flowers at Kanegasaki Shrine would bring flower branches and greet their crushes by exchanging them. This custom evolved into the annual Flower Exchange Festival held in early April. Visitors purchase cherry blossom branches, worship at the main hall, and then exchange them with the shrine maidens. The cherry blossom branches received from the maidens become amulets that can be used to pray for good relationships and the fulfillment of wishes. Additionally, this period coincides with the blooming of over 400 cherry trees within the shrine, allowing visitors to enjoy the flowers while they worship.